Andy Buehl, Cleveland, OH

2014 Immediate Need Fund Recipient

Andy Buehl, age 29, was on his way to a friends wedding when a snow storm changed his life. The result of a horrendous car accident left him unable to move his limbs and only communicate by blinking his eyes. He now lives in a rehabilitation home and his mother handles most all of his affairs. Recently (though his mom has thought this all along) they discovered that his brain damage has not hindered his ability to read. Because of this discovery, he can use what is called an "eye gaze computer." This special device allows Andy to communicate with others, control electronic devices like the radio or TV, and browse the internet. It will truly change his quality of life. However, the computer costs $10,000, and his insurance will not cover all of it. His mom is a school teacher and can't afford the difference. Though his family and friends have had fundraisers to help him, the funds raised covered the tremendous medical bills they faced with his months-long stay in the hospital. Betterment's Immediate Need Fund donation went towards the computer costs.